We must admit that history is enjoyable to a large extent because it enables us to pass judgement on the past.

There are thus great swathes of the past where understanding is more important and reputable than judgement, because the principal actors performed in line with the ideas and values of that time, not of ours.

Wisely used history can give pleasure and provide us with a useful tool; but we should not become its slaves.

History provides no precise guidelines.

While hard work remains ahead of us, our efforts are starting to show results.

It is normal for politicians in all countries to profess themselves the pupils of history, anxious to draw the right lessons from her teaching.